Appetite for the Arches raises nearly $150,000 for RMHC

Chef’s event with a twist – Central Florida’s finest chefs showcased their creativity and raised nearly $150,000 to benefit the children and families of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Florida.

Appetite for the Arches is a fundraiser benefiting the Central Florida Ronald McDonald House Charities, and participating chefs were given the challenge to create an assortment of culinary delights using McDonald’s® ingredients.

At the first-ever Appetite for the Arches event hosted by Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Central Florida on March 1, over 350 guests enjoyed a chef’s event with a twist…one that had a little something to do with the Golden Arches. Chefs from thirteen of Central Florida’s finest restaurants created signature dishes using McDonald’s® ingredients.

Attendees also enjoyed live music and a silent auction featuring a wide variety of unique items. The event raised nearly $150,000 for the two Ronald McDonald Houses in Orlando and the families they serve.

The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Florida (RMHCCF) finds, creates and supports programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children and families with their cornerstone program, the Ronald McDonald House.

The Ronald McDonald House provides assistance for families with children receiving treatment at local hospitals and medical facilities in Orlando. Helping families stay together, offering comfort, stability and significant cost savings in travel, accommodations and meals.

To keep their doors open 365 days a year, the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Florida rely on community support and donations to ensure that no family is ever turned away. There are two Ronald McDonald House locations in Orlando – one on the campus of Florida Hospital for Children and the other on the campus of Arnold Palmer Medical Center. The houses serve approximately 1,800 families each year. For more information, and to volunteer or donate to this wonderful organization, visit: https://www.ronaldmcdonaldhouseorlando.org

KRYSTLE NGUYEN is a food enthusiast and many of her childhood memories were created in the restaurants that her parents owned while she was growing up - trying new dishes and interacting with customers. You can catch her on the weekends exploring Orlando or helping her parents manage the family restaurant, Saigon Noodle and Grill. Photos taken by Krystle Nguyen with the Nikon D5000 DSLR and Olympus OM-D E-M10.